On The Uses of Adversity

The following chapter from “The Inner Life” by Thomas a Kempis is the most amazing few paragraphs I have read regarding “the fear of man versus the fear of God.” It is so easy for me to seek affirmation from others, when I should be more mindful that I am blessed, chosen, adopted, accepted, redeemed and forgiven by God (Ephesians 1:3-7). One thing I have been struggling with lately is how much my own self regard is tied to the good opinion of others. But I am not alone in this. Even Lizzie Bennett in Pride and Prejudice is also known to fear the opinion of a certain Fitzwilliam Darcy. Like the refrain in my head, Lizzie states, “I cannot bear to think that he is alive in the world and thinking ill of me.” Oh Lizzie! It doesn’t matter who thinks ill of you when you know what God thinks of you; that he judges and looks upon the heart. I need someone to instruct me in this way. I will leave it to these prescient words from an ancient saint circa 1380.

On the Uses of Adversity, The Inner Life

"It is good for us to encounter troubles and adversity from time to time, for trouble often compels a man to search his own heart. It reminds him that he is an exile here, and that he can put his trust in nothing in this world. It is good, too, that we sometimes suffer opposition, and that men think ill of us and misjudge us, even when we do and mean well. Such things are an aid to humility, and preserve us from pride and vainglory. For we more readily turn to God as our inward witness, when men despise us and think no good of us.

A man should therefore place such complete trust in God, that he has no need of comfort from men. When a good man is troubled, tempted, or vexed by evil thoughts, he comes more clearly than ever to realize his need of God, without whom he can do nothing good. Then, as he grieves and laments his lot, he turns to prayer amid his misfortunes. He is weary of life and longs for death to release him, that he may be dissolved, and be with Christ. It is then that he knows with certainty that there can be no complete security nor perfect peace in his life."